By: Lakeview Health
Why is it that people use Memorial Day weekend as an excuse to engage in drug and alcohol abuse? Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our national service. Of course, it is a somber time, and for most it is a day of sadness and gratitude. However, the alcohol industry has warped this holiday making the day a catalyst for revenue. Many alcohol companies are advertising sales despite the mixed message it sends about the holiday. CNBC published findings that indicate that consumers will buy an average of 61 million cases of beer this holiday. This incredible prediction gives insight that alcohol is a main part of celebratory events for our society. In addition to these findings, CNBC has listed a website which sells domestic beers cheaply. Unfortunately with the increased opportunity for alcohol consumption and having Monday off from work, many will be over-indulging in alcohol this weekend. Holidays seem to be an opportunity for addicts to blend in with non-addicts with the difference being that the addict needs detox and alcohol treatment to stop. The Drug Abuse Warning Network predicts that at least 199 emergency room visits this holiday will be alcohol related. Some alcohol related consequences may result in alcohol poisoning, involvement with damaging vehicles or fatal car crashes, and/or accidents due to impaired judgment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that there were 397 deaths Memorial Day weekend in 2010 and 40% were alcohol related. This holiday lets us remember our service members who are no longer with us and we should not minimize this holiday’s importance.
